Pesticide Storage and Security

Cecil Tharp

Montana State University

Pesticide Safety Education Program

Why Secure Ag. Products?

Ryder truck filled with about 5,000 pounds of explosives, including ammonium nitrate,

diesel fuel and nitromethane.

Oklahoma City BombingApril 19th, 1995

168 Died, 19 children

Are we safe now?

Shortly following the events of 9/11, The Extension Disaster Education Network (EDEN) asked farmers to

identify specific threats posed by terrorists. A few selected responses include:

• How likely do you think it is that an agricultural, food, or water bioterrorist attack will take place somewhere in the USA?• Likely to very likely: 81% • Unlikely to very unlikely: 19%

Do you feel that you are properly prepared for agroterrorism or some other security-based event against your operation?• Yes: 14% • No: 51% • Don't know: 35%

What are all the threats?

1) Terrorists / Theft

2) Children accessing pesticides

3) Environmental Consequences

Identify the Hazards

1) Are containers worn or leaky?

2) Are containers of hazardous substances secured and stored properly?

3) Are you giving away pesticides or selling illegally?

4) Are you recording your inventory?

5) Do you have suspicious individuals hanging around, working for you or wishing to purchase chemicals?

#1 Dispose of leaky or worn containers.

-Use pesticide product on a site written on the pesticide product label. or -Transport pesticide product into secondary container which has a complete pesticide product label attached.

or

-Contact MDA (406)444-5400 to access the pesticide disposal program.

#2 Securing the Storage Area

Maintain a separate location for the storage of pesticides.

If the storage area is located within a larger structure, provide access through a separate outside door.

Keep the storage area locked.

Securing Storage - continued

Ventilate the storage area properly, but do not use structures with windows large enough for someone to enter.

Store pesticides away from food, feed, seed, and fertilizer.

Securing Storage: POSTING

Post the storage area:• Example: ”Danger--Pesticides--Keep Out”

Also post “No Smoking” signs and do not allow smoking near the storage area.

Securing Storage: Posting

• Post the name, address, and telephone number of at least one contact person at the primary entrance to the storage area.

• Post emergency numbers (Poison Control, police, fire department) in the storage area.

• Large Spills contact Montana Department of Agriculture (406)444-5400.• National Poison Center 1(800)222-1222• Chemtrec’s: 1(800)424-9300 industry experts

#3 Don’t Give Away Pesticides

Do not sell or give pesticides to someone you do not know.

If you do sell some pesticides, make sure the buyer has appropriate documentation.

#4 Record Inventory

Maintain an updated inventory of products. List at least the product name, date of purchase,

quantity, and location within the storage area. Store the inventory list separately from the storage

area. Update periodically. Record all pesticide applications (Restricted Use

Recordkeeping).

#5 WATCH FOR SUSPICIOUS BEHAVIOR

Are unauthorized people allowed on the premises?

Are background checks performed on employees?

Are employees aware of the security risks associated with the storage of agrichemicals and other hazardous substances?

WATCH FOR SUSPICIOUS BEHAVIOR: DEALERS

Watch for unusual or suspicious behavior by a purchaser or other individuals who:

* acts nervous, seems uneasy or vague, and avoids eye contact;

* demands immediate possession of purchased material instead of future delivery;

Contact Information

Cecil Tharp

Pesticide Education Specialist

406-994-5067

ctharp@montana.edu

www.pesticides.montana.edu